1.the feeling that comes when something burdensome is removed or reducedas he heard the news he was suddenly flooded with relief2.the condition of being comfortable or relieved (especially after being relieved of distress)he enjoyed his relief from responsibility3.(law) redress awarded by a courtwas the relief supposed to be protection from future harm or compensation for past injury?4.someone who takes the place of another (as when things get dangerous or difficult)5.assistance in time of difficultythe contributions provided some relief for the victims6.a pause for relaxation7.a change for the better8.aid for the aged or indigent or handicappedhe has been on relief for many years9.the act of reducing something unpleasant (as pain or annoyance)he asked the nurse for relief from the constant pain10.sculpture consisting of shapes carved on a surface so as to stand out from the surrounding background11.the act of freeing a city or town that has been besiegedhe asked for troops for the relief of Atlanta